I have to keep telling people that Iowa isn’t just flat lands and endless cornfields, and that there are actually endless wildlife areas and state parks full of rolling hills, rocky cliffs, and steep bluffs to keep any outdoor enthusiast or hiker busy. So, here are 7 epic hiking spots in Iowa to check out this year. Keep these on your list for the next time you have an afternoon free!
During these uncertain times, please keep safety in mind and consider adding destinations to your bucket list to visit at a later date.
1. Backbone State Park: Located in Dundee, Iowa, Backbone was Iowa's very first state park. The park boasts 21 miles of rugged, winding trails, and plenty of limestone cliffs for climbers.
If you’re looking for fun things to do outdoors in Iowa, put Backbone State Park at the top of your list. You can even climb or rappel the rugged dolomite limestone cliffs.
2. Effigy Mounds: Effigy Mounds is located in Harpers Ferry, Iowa, and the area has a 14 mile trail system, as well as over 200 American Indian mounds.
The famous Effigy Mounds is a beautiful place to visit and learn the history of the area. They comprise a sacred area that is also one of the most stunning spots on the Upper Mississippi.
3. Ledges State Park: Located near Boone, Ledges is a favorite spot for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The park has a 5.4 mile trail, cliff areas, and many beautiful wildflowers.
One of the most iconic parts of Ledges State Park are the sandstone ledges standing at over 100 feet tall. There’s also a stunning stone bridge spanning Peas Creek. Ledges State Park has so much to offer; it makes a wonderful day trip!
4. Loess Hills State Forest: Loess Hills is located in west-central Iowa in Harrison and Monona Counties. The park spans a sprawling 11,266 acres, and is a prime spot for hiking, fishing, picknicking, or site-seeing,
This forest, filled with some of the most beautiful trails in Iowa is a lovely place to bring the whole family. You can camp, hike, and explore this incredible area.
5. Maquoketa Caves State Park: This popular spot in Maquoketa is a must-see for out-of-towners and in-staters alike. Six miles of trails, a beautiful forest, and waterfall are perfect for hikers, campers, and nature tourists.
These caves offer some of the most unique hiking in Iowa. There are so many caves to explore, and grab your picnic and enjoy!
6. Mines of Spain State Recreation Area: The Mines of Spain in Dubuque is a perfect spot for hikers, with over 21 miles of trails. During winter, the area even opens up for cross-country skiers.
With 1,437 acres, there’s so much to explore. Make sure to hike the Horseshoe Bluff Interpretive Trail, which is considered one of the best in the park. There’s so many wonderful things to do outdoors in Iowa!
7. Pikes Peak State Park: Pikes Peak, located in McGregor, is hands-down one of the most beautiful places in Iowa. On it's trails, hikers can look out over the valley from high bluffs, and enjoy some of the most beautiful scenery in the state.
Check out all the trails, reserve your camping spot, and more on Pikes Peak State Park’s website. You’ll learn everything you need to know!
What are your favorite hiking spots or nature trails in Iowa? Do you have anything you’d like to add to our list of epic hiking spots in Iowa? Let us know and share some of them in the comments below!
Address: Pikes Peak State Park, 32264 Pikes Peak Rd, McGregor, IA 52157, USA
Address: 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA
Address: Maquoketa Caves State Park, 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA
Address: Loess Hills State Forest, Iowa 51564, USA
Address: Ledges State Park, 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156, USA
Address: Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146, USA
Address: Backbone State Park Beach, Iowa 52038, USA
The OIYS Visitor Center
Epic Hiking Spots In Iowa
May 11, 2021
Megan McDonald
What is the best time of the year to hike in Iowa?
Spring through fall is the best time of year to hike in Iowa. Winter can get pretty cold, and many people aren’t equipped with the proper gear for striking out in single degree temperatures.
What’s the best time of year to visit Iowa?
Locals claim August has the best weather and is host to the awesome annual event, the Iowa State Fair. Food, bands, and 4-H fun dot the booths and get everyone out to enjoy this fun fair.
Address: Pikes Peak State Park, 32264 Pikes Peak Rd, McGregor, IA 52157, USA
Address: 8991 Bellevue Heights Rd, Dubuque, IA 52003, USA
Address: Maquoketa Caves State Park, 9688 Caves Rd, Maquoketa, IA 52060, USA
Address: Loess Hills State Forest, Iowa 51564, USA
Address: Ledges State Park, 1515 P Ave, Madrid, IA 50156, USA
Address: Effigy Mounds National Monument, 151 IA-76, Harpers Ferry, IA 52146, USA
Address: Backbone State Park Beach, Iowa 52038, USA
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Michaela is a born and raised Iowan. She writes for a newspaper by day, and writes content for websites by night. In her spare time, she enjoys reading a good book, or just binge watching Netflix.
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